Today's Spotlight is on Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES Supervisor of Special Education at the WEB Complex Danielle Wayman.
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Q. About when did you start working in your current position at Herkimer BOCES?
A. September 2024.
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Q. What led you to your current position at Herkimer BOCES?
A. I joined Herkimer BOCES in the spring of 2024 as the principal of extended school year, bringing with me more than a decade of experience as a special class teacher with a primary focus on autism programming. Stepping into a leadership role at Herkimer BOCES was a natural progression for my career, continuing my deep commitment to creating, sustaining and continuously supporting high-quality programs for students with the most intensive needs.
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Q. What do you find rewarding about working in your current position?
A. I value the opportunity to collaborate with dedicated staff to support students’ needs year-round, ensuring consistent programming that holds high expectations for every learner.
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Q. When did you first know you wanted to work in this field and what made you feel that way?
A. I first knew I wanted to become a teacher in third grade, inspired by a teacher who made a lasting impact on me. As I progressed through my education and into student teaching, I found myself naturally gravitating toward students who needed additional support. This passion ultimately led me to pursue a master’s degree in special education. I believe that not every student follows a linear path, and every achievement – no matter how small – is meaningful and deserves to be celebrated.
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Q. What do you think makes Herkimer BOCES special?
A. Herkimer BOCES provides multiple pathways to meet diverse needs and ensures that services are accessible across the region. Its programs support learners of all ages, from PreK to adults, helping each student reach their full potential through personalized learning opportunities.
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Q. Did you attend Herkimer BOCES in high school? If so, what program were you in and what year did you graduate?
A. I attended Orange-Ulster BOCES as a senior and graduated from their CTE program – New Vision Education.